According to the documentary “The Invisible War,” showing at the Milwaukee Film Festival, over 20% of women in the military have been raped or sexually assaulted.

In 1991 it was estimated 200,000 women had been assaulted to that point, a number believed to have doubled since then. And those figures are merely estimates, since 80% of those sexually assaulted do not report the crime.

Director Kirby Dick backs up these statistics with heartbreaking personal testimony by victims of this shameful betrayal, some from families with a militaryback ground, others drawn to the military out of patriotism and by the allure of discipline and camaraderie.

Instead of their attackers being charged they are harassed by superiors for reporting the assaults, their complaints are investigated by men, because women “were too sympathetic,” and they have trouble getting treatment for lingering psychological and physical problems.

“The Invisible War” plays Saturday at 1 p.m and Oct. 9 at 5 p.m. at the Downer Theater; and Wednesday at 9 p.m at Fox-Bay Cinema.

About Duane Dudek

Duane Dudek is a reporter and columnist covering radio and television. He also reviews movies.